African thinkers, artists, and activists have a new chance to explore decolonial ideas through funded projects. The Sawaba Fellowship 2026 offers space for creative work on feminist futures and anti-colonial themes. Hosted by Liberation Alliance Africa, this program selects four fellows to dive into research, art, and community action.
Program Overview
The Sawaba Fellowship 2026 targets researchers, thinkers, artists, practitioners, activists, writers, journalists, and community organizers of African descent living on the continent. It starts with a three-day residential retreat in an accessible spot in Africa. Fellows join online and in-person gatherings to share ideas and build networks.
The fellowship lasts three months. It focuses on reflection, discourse, research, and knowledge production. Participants work on projects that push for decolonial feminist futures, critical consciousness, and solidarity against colonialism.
2026 Fellowship Theme: Not Pioneers of an Empty Land
This year’s theme challenges the idea that lands were empty before colonizers arrived. It honors indigenous governance, ecological care, and cultural traditions. Fellows propose original projects that show these lands were full of life and knowledge.
Projects must link to decolonial feminist liberation. They can take forms like essays, books, podcasts, plays, exhibitions, public events, or lectures. The goal is to raise awareness about anti-colonial world-building.
Who Can Apply
Applicants should be scholars, artists, scientists, practitioners, or others in fields like journalism, playwriting, poetry, architecture, urban planning, or novels. They need deep roots in decolonial feminist politics, anti-imperialist solidarity, feminist world-building, and epistemic freedom. Knowledge of regional and global issues helps.
Selection favors projects that blend personal journeys with radical insights. Fellows must attend one in-person gathering in May 2026, fully funded by the organizers. They also engage with the Liberation Alliance Africa collective and others.
Benefits and Support
Each fellow gets a USD 500 monthly stipend for three months to cover project costs. The program runs in English. Organizers provide full support for the May retreat, including travel and stay.
Fellows gain time for their projects, connections with peers, and a platform to share work. This setup lets them focus on creating impact without money worries.
How to Apply
Submit these items:
- Project Proposal (1,500 words): Describe your method and how it connects at least two fields.
- Portfolio or CV: Show past work on decolonization or historical justice.
- Personal Statement (one page max): Explain why the theme “Not Pioneers of an Empty Land” fits your practice.
- Cover letter, portfolio, project description (up to three pages), and draft project budget.
Send everything to [email protected]. For questions, use the same email.
Key Dates
Applications close on April 24, 2026. Only shortlisted candidates hear back by April 30, 2026. The fellowship kicks off soon after, with the retreat in May.
Check the official call for details at the Liberation Alliance Africa site. This fellowship opens doors for bold voices to reshape narratives on Africa’s past and future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Sawaba Fellowship 2026?
Researchers, artists, activists, writers, journalists, and community organizers of African descent living on the continent can apply if they have roots in decolonial feminist politics and anti-imperialist solidarity.
What is the theme of the 2026 fellowship?
The theme ‘Not Pioneers of an Empty Land’ challenges the idea of empty lands before colonizers and honors indigenous governance, ecological care, and cultural traditions through decolonial feminist projects.
What benefits do fellows receive?
Fellows get a USD 500 monthly stipend for three months, full funding for a May retreat including travel and stay, peer connections, and a platform to share their work.
How do I apply and what are the deadlines?
Submit a project proposal, portfolio or CV, personal statement, cover letter, and budget to [email protected] by April 24, 2026; shortlisted candidates hear back by April 30.
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